A selection of vintage miniature hats are currently being documented by experts and volunteers at the Leeds Discovery Centre.
And trust us, these hats are really really cute.
From top hats and riding hats to gold trimmed hats and feather trimmed Tudor hats, there's a plethora of historic tiny hats currently undergoing conservation at the Leeds Discovery Centre.
The remarkable range, some of which fit in the palm of a hand, were made by Leeds hatter John Craig in the early 1900s who established his business in the popular shopping district of Park Row.
Image: Leeds City Council
The shop remained there until 1936 before moving to Wellington Street, where it traded until around 1947.
But the hats weren't made for mice to wear, they were originally crafted to show to clients and demonstrate the maker's skill and impressive range of products they could create.
A leaflet from 1927 said John Craig "commenced his business with the ambition of supplying good hats, and as the variety of shapes increased specialising in selecting for his customers the hats of most suitable shape giving especial care to the comfort of the wearer."
Image: Leeds City Council
Natalie Raw, Leeds Museums and Galleries curator of costume, has been working with a group of students from The University of York to document the extent of the John Craig's collection and other objects stored at the Leeds Discovery Centre.
She said: “The quite remarkable variety of shapes, sizes and colours of hats in our collection shows the many different ways they have been worn over the decades, including practically as a status symbol, and sometimes as a flamboyant fashion statement.
Image: Leeds City Council
“These wonderful miniature hats in particular demonstrate the skill and artistry possessed by one traditional Leeds hatmaker and the pride he clearly took in his work. It’s fascinating to think of each of them carefully and meticulously made in the workshop and then proudly shown to potential customers.
“We’re fortunate to have such an extensive collection to go through and it’s been so rewarding to find out more about the history behind these beautiful, stylish creations.”
After their sudden closure and disappearance from Leeds’ independent retail scene earlier this year, North Home have found a new location.
Homeware and interior lovers will remember the devastation that North Home's closure caused back in March.
The independent Nordic-inspired shop in Leeds' affluent Victoria Quarter was stacked to the brim with unique pieces from striking ceramics to stylish soft furnishings.
Well known amongst shoppers for their incredibly well-curated stock and great customer service, this was one of the best shopping experiences for homeware enthusiasts in the city.
Seriously, we've probably spent a good hour in here in awe of all the beautiful pieces.
Their closure in March was down to "increasing costs", stating that "Taking this step now gives us the opportunity to protect what we’ve built and focus on the future of the brand.
"We’ve loved being part of the Leeds retail community since 2020 and are incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received. We hope to share more about our plans soon."
And low and behold, they've stuck to their word as North Home have announced that they will be moving into Red Brick Mill over in Batley.
Announcing the very exciting news to Instagram, North Home said: "We’re officially setting up a new space! Thanks for all your great suggestions and ideas.
"We’re super excited to start working with you on your interior design projects. Thanks to REDBRICK for their very warm welcome. Opening soon @redbrick_mill in Batley"
This new chapter marks an exciting fresh start for North Home, and we couldn’t be happier to see them back doing what they do best.
Popular New York-style pizza pop-up confirms opening date for first takeaway in Leeds
Clementine Hall
New York-style pizza pop-up, Edges Pizza, is set to open in Leeds.
Last summer you may have had the privilege to enjoy a slice of Edges Pizza at one of their many pop-up residences across the city.
Their longest stint was at the sun-drenched roof terrace of Green Room, and it's safe to say their pizza went down an absolute treat.
Since then they've been a little quiet, but all for good reason it seems.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Edges will be opening their doors in Leeds city centre on Thursday 18 June in a vacant railway arch at Fourth Court on Bridge Road in Leeds' Holbeck area.
It won't be your average pizza shop though, you'll have to preorder for now but trust us - it's worth it.
Announcing the very exciting news to Instagram, Edges said: "WE FINALLY HAVE an opening date, Thursday 18th June! All pizzas are pre-ordered like we have always done, and are slightly limited for now (still looking for helping hands!!!). The pre-orders will open the day before at 12pm via our Storekit link.
"We’ll be then opening Wednesday to Friday, 4-9pm and Saturday & Sunday 3-9pm. If there are still remaining slots left on the day, you can order up to an hour before the collection time. We have limited seating, for those who travel and would like to eat in. There is plenty of car parking space, to pick up your pizza, too.
"We can’t wait to see you all soon & more importantly, we can’t wait to start making some good food for you again."
We can't wait to get our hands on a coveted Edges pizza slice again, so you best believe we'll be there at the opening with bells on.
Clementine Hall -
19th March 2024 
